Gum recession occurs when the soft tissues surrounding the tooth pull away and expose the tooth roots. It is mostly caused by gum disease, but gum recession may be a result of the following factors as well:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Genetics
• Improper brushing techniques
• Smoking
• Hormonal changes

One of the first signs of gum recession is dental sensitivity. Our tooth roots don’t have a protective layer of enamel so liquids and foods easily irritate the exposed area. If left untreated, the gums may continue to recede causing gum disease, tooth decay, and eventually, tooth loss.

Gum recession cannot be reversed, but it can be treated and stopped. Our Grant Park dentist believes the best, most comfortable, and safest way to treat gum recession is through the pinhole technique. Here are the benefits of the pinhole surgical technique:

1.    Minimally invasive treatment

Gum grafting surgery is the alternative treatment for gum recession. During this procedure, dentists use surgical tools to cut the natural gum tissue and sutures to attach donor tissue. Though it is effective, it is much more invasive.

With the pinhole technique, there are no blades or sutures. The dentist will only use a thin needle to massage and loosen the gums into the proper position, then insert tiny collagen strips to secure the gums.

2.    Comfortable procedure

Because the pinhole technique is free from blades and sutures, it is also much more comfortable than traditional gum grafting. In fact, many patients report feeling no pain during the procedure. Of course, this is partly due to the fact that the gums are numbed with a local anesthetic.

Additionally, when you choose a careful and skilled dentist like ours, you’re sure to have a good experience throughout the procedure.

3.    Little to no recovery time

Along with securing the gums, the collagen strips stimulate healing. Though you may experience some swelling and discomfort for the first 24 hours, these symptoms and the tiny holes in your gums should be completely healed by the next morning. During those first 24 hours, we recommend using gentle brushing techniques and eating softer foods. The next day, you should feel comfortable going back to your normal way of life.

With gum grafting surgery, full recovery takes about two weeks and lots of disruptions to your daily life. For example, patients must commit to a liquid and soft food diet for at least a week, take pain meds, use ice packs daily, and take time off work. These disruptions can easily be avoided when you choose the pinhole surgical technique instead.

4.    Beautiful results

Gum recession causes gaps between the teeth and makes teeth appear to be longer, both of which can be aesthetically displeasing. With the pinhole technique, the health and appearance of the gums are restored.

Our Grant Park dentist, Dr. Abbey J. Lee, has a keen eye for detail and steady hand that ensures the gum lines are even and perfectly placed. Additionally, the needle allows for better precision than scalpels and sutures.

Once complete, patients feel much more comfortable showing off their smiles!

The Pinhole Technique in Grant Park

Dr. Lee is one of the only dentists in the Grant Park area that offers this incredible technique. Her commitment to providing patients with minimally invasive, comfortable care is apparent. To learn if you are a candidate for this procedure, contact our office today at 404-328-7177.